The name of Major Bill Rudd MBE, a much loved and highly respected Royal Engineer, will live on in Ripon following a dedication and remembrance service during the regiment's Freedom Weekend.

Veterans, serving soldiers, friends and family gathered in Spa Gardens on Saturday afternoon for the unveiling of a bench installed in his honour.

The installation was made possible with support from the Ripon Commando and Airborne branches of the Royal Engineers Association.

Facing onto the city's War Memorial, the bench is a fitting tribute to the retired major who died six years ago following a distinguished army career.

This included service with both the 9 Parachute Squadron and 59 Independent Commando Squadron of the Royal Engineers.

Prior to becoming a commissioned officer, Major Rudd served as the Regimental Sergeant Major of 38 Engineer Regiment based at Claro Barracks.

He maintained his connection with comrades through setting up the Yorkshire Branch of the Airborne Engineers Association with fellow Sappers Dave Edmonds and Charlie Dunk and was made a lifetime vice-president of the association.

Major Rudd lived across the road from Spa Gardens and was a regular visitor to the parkland area, where the Ripon War Memorial is the focal point for annual Remembrance services.

Royal Engineers' veteran Jim Phillips. who was involved, with his wife Trudie in raising money for the installation of the bench, said:

Our main picture shows members of the Yorkshire Branch of the Airborne Engineers Association who were among those present for the dedication ceremony

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